Portugal's Political Earthquake: Far-Right Chega Surges to Become Main Opposition

Far-Right Chega Party Shakes Up Portugal's Political Scene

In a historic shift, the far-right Chega party has emerged as the main opposition in Portugal's parliament, marking a dramatic departure from the country's traditional bipartisan politics. This comes after the third snap election in three years, where Chega edged out the Socialist party (PS) to claim second place.

Election Results Breakdown

• The centre-right Democratic Alliance (AD), led by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, secured 31.8% of the vote and 91 seats, falling short of a majority.
• Chega clinched 22.76% of the vote and 60 seats, surpassing the PS, which held onto 58 seats but with a slightly higher vote share of 22.83%.

The Rise of Chega

Founded in 2019 by former football pundit André Ventura, Chega has capitalized on widespread discontent with Portugal's mainstream parties. Issues like the housing crisis, struggling public services, and low wages (averaging €1,602 monthly) have fueled its rapid ascent:

• 2019: 1.3% of the vote
• 2022: 7.2%
• 2023: 18.1% (50 seats)
• 2025: 22.76% (60 seats)

Ventura hailed the result as a victory for Portugal, declaring the political system "changed forever today." Meanwhile, PS leader Pedro Nuno Santos resigned following the party's poor performance.

Government Formation Challenges

Despite its gains, Chega remains isolated. Montenegro has ruled out any coalition, calling the party "unreliable" and "unsuited to government." The Liberal Initiative party, which could bolster AD's numbers, has also rejected collaboration with Chega.

Controversies and Scandals

Chega's anti-corruption stance has been undermined by recent scandals:

• An MP expelled for airport luggage theft
• A member caught drunk-driving
• Another charged with paying for sex with a minor

Election Backdrop

The snap election followed Montenegro's failed confidence vote, amid scrutiny over a data protection consultancy he transferred to his family. Campaign issues included housing, public services, and immigration—a Chega priority. The caretaker government's expulsion of 18,000 irregular migrants drew accusations of pandering to the far right.

Portugal now faces a fragmented parliament, with Chega's rise signaling a new era in its political landscape.